University of Rochester Program

The Hematopathology Fellowship Program at the University of Rochester Medical Center is a one-year, ACGME-accredited program designed to provide comprehensive training in diagnostic hematopathology. The program is structured to ensure that fellows gain extensive hands-on experience and knowledge essential for their future careers. The program aims to foster an environment of individual growth and professional development while emphasizing responsibility and ownership of the hematopathology service.

Program Overview

This fellowship offers a unique opportunity to work alongside a distinguished team of hematopathologists at a world-renowned institution, URMC, and the Wilmot Cancer Institute. Since its inception in 2007, more than a dozen fellows have successfully completed the program and progressed to various roles in academia, private practice, and the industry. The program philosophy includes integrating comprehensive diagnostic work while providing a supportive learning environment

Curriculum Structure

The curriculum is designed to be both comprehensive and flexible, allowing fellows to engage in scholarly activities and focus on subspecialty areas of hematopathology. A typical year involves a mandatory nine-month focus on the diagnosis of lymphomas and leukemias, incorporating advanced techniques such as flow cytometry, molecular diagnostics, and cytogenetics. The latter three months of the fellowship can be flexibly scheduled to allow for research projects or additional training in specific areas of interest

Learning Objectives

The fellowship program emphasizes structured learning objectives, which are tracked through monthly evaluations known as “mileposts.” These mileposts help fellows assess their progress and take charge of their educational trajectory throughout the fellowship

Case Volume and Clinical Exposure

The Hematopathology Unit at URMC manages a diverse case mix, processing over 4,000 cases annually which include blood/bone marrows and lymph nodes. The fellows will have primary responsibility for more than 600 bone marrows and 300 lymph nodes during the program, ensuring ample exposure to a variety of hematologic malignancies. This high case volume and diversity in pathology ensure that fellows develop the expertise required for their future careers.

Research Opportunities

Research plays a significant role in the fellowship training. The program encourages fellows to pursue academic projects throughout their training. Collaborations with faculty and access to ongoing research initiatives are readily available, allowing fellows to contribute to significant findings that can be advantageous for their careers

Training Facilities

The fellowship is based in a state-of-the-art facility adjacent to the Flow Cytometry laboratory. The fellows’ office proximity to the signout area and laboratory supports an optimal learning environment, allowing close interaction with faculty and hands-on training in advanced diagnostic procedures

Faculty Engagement

The faculty at URMC comprises seasoned professionals dedicated to fellow education. The fellowship has direct access to distinguished faculty, who not only teach but also involve fellows in clinical discussions and management decisions, preparing them for challenges ahead in their medical careers

Application Process

To apply for the Hematopathology Fellowship Program, applicants must be board-certified or board-eligible in anatomic pathology, clinical pathology, or both. A completed application includes a curriculum vitae, personal statement, and three letters of recommendation. The application process typically runs from September 30 to December 31, and interviews are conducted early in the following year. Candidates are expected to complete USMLE by the time of application

Visa Support and Eligibility

The program actively supports international applicants. It may sponsor the J-1 visa, which is suitable for fellowship training. Details on visa sponsorship should be confirmed during the application process.

Competitiveness of the Fellowship

The Hematopathology Fellowship is considered a highly competitive program, attracting candidates from diverse backgrounds including U.S. medical graduates and international medical graduates. The program welcomes applicants who demonstrate a strong foundation in pathology and a passion for hematopathology diagnosis and research.

Unique Aspects

One of the standout features of this fellowship is its commitment to providing fellows with a comprehensive experience, balancing both clinical case load and academic opportunities. The support for self-directed learning through monthly evaluations and the flexibility to choose areas of focus are distinctive components that aid in the development of well-rounded specialists in hematopathology.